Connect with us

Government

Rockland Community College Ranks #10 in Military Times 2023 Best For Vets Colleges

Published

3 years ago

on

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – Rockland Community College (RCC) is ranked as the #10 institution in the Northeast & Islands region in the prestigious Military Times’ 2023 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings, the largest and most comprehensive ranking of schools for military service members and veterans. The recognition reflects RCC’s commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities and support for military-connected students.

“We are thrilled to celebrate RCC’s recognition as the #10 institution in the Northeast & Islands region for supporting our student veterans,” said Dr. Lester Rápalo, RCC President. “This achievement reflects our commitment to serving and supporting our military students, as we continue our mission to transform the lives of our community members through education.”

Each year, a survey is distributed to colleges and universities nationwide, inquiring about their programs for veterans. The survey, along with public data from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs, are analyzed to create an official ranking. Colleges and universities were asked to participate in the survey, and the Military Times data team analyzed the responses, resulting in the creation of a highly regarded and impartial annual ranking of these institutions. This year, the list includes 325 schools, marking an increase of almost 5% compared to the previous year.

Rockland Community College attained the following positions in the 2023 rankings:

Overall Rank: 131
Rank in Northeast & Islands: 10
Rank in At least 2 but less than 4 years: 18
Rank in Primarily in-person: 113
Rank in General Education: 124

RCC’s Veterans Affairs department provides comprehensive support services to military-affiliated students, including assistance in identifying and applying for educational benefits, academic guidance, and enrollment certification to the Veterans Administration.

“I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of our dedicated efforts in support of our veteran students firsthand,” said Jonathan Barnwell, the RCC Assistant Director of Judicial and Veteran Affairs. “This recognition reaffirms our progress in providing imperative support and resources to our military students.”

For a decade, Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges has aided and support to the military community by delivering trusted ranking and reporting on the top schools for veterans. The rankings have become a primary resource for schools to publicize their veteran programs, aiding veterans in making important decisions about their educational planning and how to use the education benefits acquired through their military service.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Government

Rockland County Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

Published

8 hours ago

on

June 3, 2026

By

The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

Continue Reading

Government

Rockland Conservation & Service Corps Stream Team Helps Prevent Flooding and Protect Waterways

Published

9 hours ago

on

June 3, 2026

By

Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are helping protect local communities through their work with the Rockland County Drainage Agency, inspecting and assessing streams throughout Rockland County.

The Corps’ Stream Team identifies obstructions such as fallen trees, debris, and sediment buildup that can restrict water flow and contribute to flooding during heavy storms. Members also document illicit discharges, erosion issues, and areas in need of sediment remediation.

The information collected helps county officials address potential problems before they become larger environmental or public safety concerns.

In addition to reducing flood risks, the Stream Team’s work supports water quality and helps maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the county. By monitoring local waterways and identifying issues early, the team plays an important role in protecting Rockland County’s natural resources and strengthening community resilience.

Officials say the partnership highlights the importance of proactive environmental stewardship and ongoing efforts to keep Rockland County’s streams healthy, safe, and flowing properly.

Continue Reading

Trending